If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s both easy and quick to make, Turkish Pasta, or “Manti,” is the perfect option. This traditional Turkish dish, typically made with small dumplings and served with a delicious yogurt sauce, offers a balance of savory and tangy flavors that will satisfy your taste buds. In this recipe, we’re putting a modern twist on the classic by creating a simple yet delicious pasta version that is ready in less than 30 minutes.
Turkish pasta is made with fresh ingredients like garlic, yogurt, and tomato paste, combined with a savory blend of spices. The result is a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving a dish with a little more complexity than your usual pasta. What’s great about this recipe is that it’s customizable – you can adjust the spices to your liking, and it can be made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Whether you’re new to Turkish cuisine or just looking for a fresh take on pasta, this Turkish Pasta recipe will soon become a go-to meal. It’s a perfect combination of savory flavors, and the creamy yogurt sauce adds an irresistible touch. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!
Why You Will Love Making This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why you’ll love this Turkish Pasta recipe:
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be made in just 30 minutes! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something flavorful but don’t have a lot of time to cook.
- Hearty and Satisfying: With a blend of savory tomato paste, garlic, and yogurt, this dish is hearty and filling. The pasta, combined with the rich sauce, makes it a complete meal that will keep you satisfied.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices to suit your preferences. Want a spicier dish? Add more red pepper flakes. Prefer a milder version? Skip the hot spices and enjoy the creamy, tangy yogurt sauce on its own.
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of tomato paste, yogurt, garlic, and spices creates a unique, comforting flavor profile that is both savory and tangy. The creaminess of the yogurt sauce pairs beautifully with the pasta.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making dinner for your family or hosting a gathering, this Turkish Pasta will impress. It’s simple enough for weeknight meals but also has a level of sophistication that’s perfect for special occasions.
- Healthy and Nutritious: The recipe uses fresh, wholesome ingredients that provide a great mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats. You can also add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (any shape you prefer)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Used
- Large Pot – To cook the pasta. A large pot ensures that the pasta has plenty of space to cook evenly.
- Large Pan or Skillet – Used for sautéing the onions, garlic, and spices, and for mixing the pasta with the tomato paste sauce.
- Knife and Cutting Board – Essential for chopping the onion, garlic, and any other vegetables or garnishes.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups – To accurately measure the ingredients for the sauce and yogurt mixture.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Useful for stirring the ingredients and ensuring the sauce and pasta mix evenly.
- Small Mixing Bowl – For preparing the yogurt sauce by mixing Greek yogurt with lemon juice and seasoning.
- Strainer – To drain the cooked pasta before adding it to the sauce.
- Serving Plates – For plating the pasta and garnishing with parsley and yogurt sauce.
Directions & Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Tomato Paste and Spices: Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and ground cumin. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, to allow the flavors to develop. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the tomato paste mixture. Toss the pasta in the sauce to coat evenly, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with lemon juice. Add a pinch of salt and stir until smooth.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top it with a generous spoonful of the yogurt sauce. Drizzle olive oil over the top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Enjoy: Serve your Turkish Pasta warm and enjoy this flavorful dish!
Nutritional Information
This Turkish Pasta is a flavorful and filling dish that provides a balanced mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats. Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
This recipe is a great option for those looking to enjoy a comforting meal without too many calories. The Greek yogurt adds a boost of protein and creaminess, while the spices and olive oil contribute to the dish’s rich flavor. For a lighter version, you can use low-fat Greek yogurt or adjust the amount of olive oil used.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: You can make this dish vegetarian by leaving out any meat and adding more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Turkish Pasta: If you enjoy heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a bit of chili paste to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Add Meat: For extra protein, you can add cooked ground beef or lamb, or even grilled chicken to the pasta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can use regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt provides a creamier texture and higher protein content. If you use regular yogurt, you may need to strain it to achieve a thicker consistency.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready to eat, combine them and heat through. Add the yogurt sauce just before serving.
Can I use other pasta shapes?
Absolutely! While traditional Turkish pasta is often made with dumplings or small pasta, you can use any shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.
Pro Tips by Emma
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Make the Yogurt Sauce Creamier: If you want a richer yogurt sauce, stir in a small amount of olive oil or a spoonful of sour cream.
- Experiment with Herbs: Add fresh herbs like dill, thyme, or mint to the yogurt sauce for a more aromatic twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Turkish Pasta can be served on its own or paired with a light side salad, such as a Greek cucumber salad or simple roasted vegetables. For a more filling meal, you can serve it alongside grilled lamb or chicken skewers. Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Easy Turkish Pasta Recipe: A Flavorful, Quick Dish
Equipment
- Large Pot – To cook the pasta. A large pot ensures that the pasta has plenty of space to cook evenly.
- Large Pan or Skillet – Used for sautéing the onions, garlic, and spices, and for mixing the pasta with the tomato paste sauce.
- Knife and Cutting Board – Essential for chopping the onion, garlic, and any other vegetables or garnishes.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups – To accurately measure the ingredients for the sauce and yogurt mixture.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula – Useful for stirring the ingredients and ensuring the sauce and pasta mix evenly.
- Small Mixing Bowl – For preparing the yogurt sauce by mixing Greek yogurt with lemon juice and seasoning.
- Strainer – To drain the cooked pasta before adding it to the sauce.
- Serving Plates – For plating the pasta and garnishing with parsley and yogurt sauce.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta any shape you prefer
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for garnish
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Tomato Paste and Spices: Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, and ground cumin. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, to allow the flavors to develop. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the pan with the tomato paste mixture. Toss the pasta in the sauce to coat evenly, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Prepare the Yogurt Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the Greek yogurt with lemon juice. Add a pinch of salt and stir until smooth.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and top it with a generous spoonful of the yogurt sauce. Drizzle olive oil over the top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Enjoy: Serve your Turkish Pasta warm and enjoy this flavorful dish!